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November 27, 2019

The Best Places to Shop for Gifts in Des Moines

There are so many incredible small businesses to support in our community! No matter the occasion, you're sure to find the perfect present with this collection of places to buy gifts in Des Moines, Iowa.

We’ve all been there. You need a gift for someone, but don’t know where to turn. Instead of heading to Target or ordering something off of Amazon, why not take the time to support a small business and shop for your gifts in Des Moines? I promise it’s a no brainer once you have a list of places to go. And now that I’ve put this handy guide together, it’ll be even easier.

Sure, it’s great to shop small during the holiday season. But it’s even better to support businesses in our community year-round. No matter the occasion, there are so many incredible shops and small businesses you can support by buying gifts in Des Moines. If you’ve ever wondered where to find the perfect gift in and around the metro, look no further. These local shops have unique items for every occasion and gift recipient.

Table of Contents

  • Where to Find the Best Gifts in Des Moines
    • Beauty & Self-Care
    • Clothing & Apparel
    • Creative Gifts
    • Foodie Gifts
    • The Perfect Greeting Card
    • Gifts for the Home & Outdoor Space
  • Share Your Thoughts

Where to Find the Best Gifts in Des Moines

Beauty & Self-Care

 

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A post shared by eden (@edeniowa) on Oct 29, 2019 at 12:23pm PDT

We can all use a little extra pampering now and then. These shops offer wonderful gift options that let the recipient indulge and take a little time for themselves.

  • Eden (418 E. 6th Street, Des Moines): There’s no place with a more expansive selection of indulgent beauty products in Des Moines than Eden. From candles to face masks and everything in between, this beautifully curated shop truly is an eden for anyone looking for a gift that inspires a little self care.
  • Gong Fu Tea (414 E. 6th Street, Des Moines): I’m not a huge tea drinker. But I love the ritual and relaxation that goes along with it. One of my favorite—and easy—gifting options is to pick up a unique loose leaf tea from Gong Fu. If you’re not sure where to start, their staff is incredibly helpful and always has the best recommendations.

Clothing & Apparel

 

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A post shared by MARNĒ | mar/nē/ (@shopmarne) on Nov 28, 2019 at 7:07am PST

Des Moines is full of chain clothing retailers. But the city also has some incredible local shops that sell one-of-a-kind clothing and apparel items. If you’re shopping for wearable gifts, consider visiting one of these wonderful retailers to find something special.

  • Fontenelle Supply Co. (524 E. Grand Avenue, Des Moines): If you’re searching for menswear with a rugged, outdoorsy feel, Fontenelle Supply Co. is the place to visit. Not only does this East Village shop have a great selection of apparel, but it also offers all sorts of leather and handmade accessories.
  • Fusion Boutique (4100 University Avenue #107, West Des Moines): I still can’t believe it took me so long to discover the incredible select of women’s clothes, accessories and more at Fusion Boutique in West Des Moines. Their selections are changing all the time, and the shop’s owner, Sara, and her team are phenomenal resources when it comes to finding the perfect piece.
  • MARNē (350 E. Locust Street #101, Des Moines): Clothing and accessories that are sustainably and ethically made are MARNē’s mission and I can’t think of a more worthy cause to support with your gift. Choose from a beautiful selection of unique clothing items, handmade pieces of jewelry, clean beauty products and more.
  • Preservation (321 E. Walnut Street, Des Moines): If you’re looking to gift a beautiful vintage (or vintage-inspired) piece, Preservation should be your go-to spot. This shop has a beautiful selection of both new and old items sure to fit seamlessly into any style.
  • RAYGUN (505 E. Grand Avenue, Des Moines): If you’re in need of a quintessential Des Moines gift, all you need to do is pay a visit to RAYGUN. Grab one of their signature snarky T-shirts or a punny postcard to gift a piece of the Midwest.
  • The Side Garage (513 Elm Street, West Des Moines): With beautifully designed apparel items and a mission to make screen printing feel less intimidating, The Side Garage is the perfect place to find a thoughtful, Midwest-themed gift.

Creative Gifts

 

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A post shared by Becky | The Knotty Nail®️ (@theknottynail) on Aug 22, 2019 at 8:00am PDT

What better way to infuse a little creative inspiration into someone’s life than with a thoughtful gift! Whether you’re shopping for a bookworm or an aspiring maker, there are lots of places to find wonderfully creative gifts in Des Moines.

  • Beaverdale Books (2629 Beaver Avenue, Suite 1, Des Moines): Gifting books is one of my favorite practices for both birthdays and the holidays alike. I also make an effort to support local booksellers when I do buy books. In the Des Moines metro, the cozy and plentifully stocked Beaverdale Books is one of my absolute favorite spots.
  • Des Moines Art Center Museum Shop (4700 Grand Avenue, Des Moines): When I worked at the Art Center, I was a frequent shopper at the Museum Shop. Even after leaving to start a new job, it’s still one of my favorite, well-kept secrets when it comes to finding unique gifts. Plus, Art Center members receive 10% off Museum Shop purchases every day.
  • The Knotty Nail (232 5th Street, West Des Moines): Whether you’re searching for a gift for someone crafty or just lightly creative, The Knotty Nail is the perfect place to shop. You’ll find a wide variety of kits and crafty items at this Valley Junction shop. But you could also gift a registration to one of their many classes.
  • Red Door Press (900 Keosauqua Way #120, Des Moines): Letterpress makes my heart swoon and the Red Door Press creates some truly beautiful prints. Gift someone the perfect piece of handmade art to brighten their home or office.

Foodie Gifts

 

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A post shared by One Sweet Kitchen (@onesweetkitchen) on Aug 22, 2019 at 5:42am PDT

Whether you’re shopping for a foodie or simply want to bring a thoughtful food-based gift to a gathering, there are endless options in Des Moines. From shops with all manner of kitchen gadgets to full-service eateries that create beautifully prepared foods that make great gifts, you’re sure to find the perfect edible item at one of these local businesses.

  • Allspice (400 E. Locust Street, Des Moines): Allspice is one of my favorite places to shop for specialty or hard-to-find ingredients year-round, but it’s also a phenomenal place to find gifts. Whether you’re picking up a fancy bottle of infused olive oil or one of their pre-made gift boxes, you can’t go wrong with something from this incredible spice shop.
  • The Cheese Shop of Des Moines (833 42nd Street, Des Moines): Can you ever go wrong with cheese? I honestly don’t think so. Stop by to grab a hunk of fancy cheese and a bottle of wine. Or, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, the Cheese Shop also offers pre-made monger boxes. Each include cheese, crackers, wine and more—all pre-picked and ready to enjoy.
  • The Grateful Chef (1938 SE 6th Street, Suite 103, Des Moines): Giving someone a gift certificate to The Grateful Chef is one of my favorite gifting options, especially during hard times. These pre-prepared meals nutritious and lovingly made. But they’re also an easy grab-and-go option for when life gets hectic.
  • Kitchen Collage (430 E. Locust Street, Des Moines): If you’re shopping for someone who’s always on the hunt for a new kitchen gadget, then this East Village store is the perfect place to shop. From gadgets to glassware, Kitchen Collage has it all. Also, their selection of cookbooks is unmatched!
  • One Sweet Kitchen (Available by order or occasionally at Crème Cupcake): What better way to celebrate a special occasion than with an order of custom cookies? One Sweet Kitchen bakes delicious sugar cookies and has icing skills that are out of this world. Whatever you’re celebrating, I promise it’ll be better with cookies.

The Perfect Greeting Card

 

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A post shared by Sarah McCoy (@thepcpress) on Nov 26, 2019 at 12:10pm PST

I’ve always had a soft spot for a nice, hand written card. In fact, I like picking out greeting cards for an occasion almost as much as I enjoy shopping for gifts. Thankfully, Des Moines has plenty of greeting card makers and stationery stores to help you find the perfect message for any occasion.

  • Domestica (505 E. Grand Avenue #102, Des Moines): This shop’s eclectic collection of art, accessories, home goods and more is capped off by a truly delightful selection of greeting cards. If you’re looking for an offbeat card, you’ll find it at Domestica.
  • Ephemera (505 E. Locust Street, Des Moines): My favorite select of cards, planners and more is at Ephemera in Des Moines’ East Village. This cozy stationery store is what I imagine The Shop Around the Corner from You’ve Got Mail would have felt like. No matter the occasion, I’m always able to find a heart-felt card at Ephemera.
  • The Permanent Collection (520 E. 6th Street, Des Moines): If you love letterpress, you won’t want to miss The Permanent Collection. This East Village shop offers beautiful handmade cards, coasters and more. I’m always a big fan of their Des Moines-themed holiday cards.
  • Pink Print Company (350 E. Locust Street, Des Moines): If your greeting card style is a little more modern and minimalistic, Pink Print Company will have the perfect stationery for you.

Gifts for the Home & Outdoor Space

 

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A post shared by Art Terrarium (@art_terrarium) on Nov 15, 2019 at 8:06am PST

There’s nothing I enjoy more than finding a gift that will brighten someone’s day every time they see it. When it comes to shopping for gifts for the home, I prefer to focus on small, thoughtful touches. But no matter what you’re searching for, Des Moines is full of places to find incredible gifts for homes, outdoor spaces and more.

  • Art Terrarium (106 11th Street, Des Moines): Part plant shop and part art gallery, Art Terrarium is an incredible hybrid that has great gift options whether you have a green thumb or not. Their selection and helpful tips for future plant parents are truly unmatched.
  • CK Design Co. (520 SW 9th Street #114, Des Moines): CK Design Co.’s incredible selection of curated vintage seriously makes my heart swoon. Regardless of your gift recipient’s style, you’re sure to find a unique accent for their home at this local shop.
  • The Collective (340 SW 5th Street #122, Des Moines): Consider giving a gift that does some good when you shop at The Collective. This shop’s focus on sustainability and environmentally friendly alternatives means your dollars also support a worthy cause. The shop has a huge selection of helpful items like metal straws and reusable paper towels to help eliminate unnecessary waste.
  • Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden (909 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines): While the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a great outdoor escape, it’s also a phenomenal place to find gifts for the gardener in your life. I love the variety of items available in their small shop. Every time I visit, I discover something unexpected for my green thumbed friends and family members.
  • Rescued Junk (135 N. Chestnut Avenue & 135 S. Chesnut Avenue, Earlham): Granted, Rescued Junk is about 20 minutes west of West Des Moines. But its incredible collection of vintage and home goods is well worth the trip. These vintage and handmade items all draw from the same flawlessly rustic aesthetic. No matter what you discover, their pieces are sure to bring a modern farmhouse feel to any home.

Share Your Thoughts

I would love to hear from you! Where do you shop for gifts in Des Moines? What are some of your favorite shops?

Want to shop local but not sure where to start? Find the perfect present for any person or occasion at this incredible collection of places to shop for gifts in Des Moines, Iowa. #DesMoines #Iowa #BuyLocal #ShopSmall
Want to shop local but not sure where to start? Find the perfect present for any person or occasion at this incredible collection of places to shop for gifts in Des Moines, Iowa. #DesMoines #Iowa #BuyLocal #ShopSmall

Posted by Megan Bannister Leave a Comment
Filed Under: Iowa Tagged: 2019 gift guide, Allspice, Art Terrarium, Beaverdale Books, CK Design Co., Des Moines, Des Moines Art Center, Domestica, eden, Ephemera, Fontenelle Supply Co., Fusion Boutique, gift guide, gift guide 2019, Gong Fu Tea, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, Iowa, Kitchen Collage, MARNē, One Sweet Kitchen, Pink Print Company, Preservation, RAYGUN, Red Door Press, Rescued Junk, The Cheese Shop of Des Moines, The Collective, The Grateful Chef, The Knotty Nail, The Permanent Collection, The Side Garage

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about-me Hi there! My name is Megan and I'm a travel writer based in Des Moines, Iowa. I'm always up for a road trip and adore "world's largest" things. Get to know me better!
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Recent Adventures

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  • The Best Places to Shop for Gifts in Des Moines
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Instagram post 2178141328653811768_1545888032 ✨ It’s been an exciting week! ✨ On Monday I turned in the manuscript of my book to my editor and, just like that, Iowa Supper Clubs is one step closer to being a real, live book. The time I took me research and write this book feels like both a blink and an eternity. But I’m so thankful for all of the people who took the time to share their stories and help me along the way. Naturally, I couldn’t think of a more fitting way to celebrate than with a Grasshopper and Emberburger (unfortunately not covered in cheese, because that’s apparently a lunch thing) at Jesse’s Embers in Des Moines. 📷: From earlier this fall when I was equally excited to enjoy a Grasshopper at the Moracco Supper Club in Dubuque. #IowaSupperClubs #ThisIsIowa
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I first started blogging because I wanted to showcase the places and attractions that are often overlooked. I have an eternal soft spot for small towns and offbeat destinations and absolutely love sharing them with you. It truly means so much to hear that I've inspired you to visit places like Mason City and pull over for offbeat attractions like Rancho Deluxe. For the bottom of my road trip loving heart, thank you for following along 💕 #hosted #MasonCityIA #ThisIsIowa
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#foodie #midwest #desmoines #dsmusa #catchdsm #thisisiowa #foodie #veglife #vegetarian #hormel
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#travel #explore #adventure #roadtrip #roadtrippers #travelblog #travelblogger #olioontheroad #midwesttravelbloggers #mwtblogs #discovermidwest #midwestmoment #midwest #igersmidwest #foodie #iowa #exploreiowa #vintage #vintageneon #neonsigns #supperclub #finefood
Instagram post 2119410404273720943_1545888032 Have you ever stepped into a place that just felt like magic? ✨ That's how I felt the first time I visited @thistlessummit, an inclusive bed and breakfast and "homostead" in Mount Vernon, Iowa. I'm so blown away by the incredible community my talented friends have created there and so thrilled that they’re finally ready to welcome guests into their home. ⠀
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➡️Swipe to see more of the beautifully relaxing spaces, delicious locally sourced food and Thistle, the sweet black lab mix who is ready to be your new best friend. Read more about why you need to book your stay at this incredible historic home ASAP by clicking the link in my bio. Plus, we're currently running a fun giveaway that includes a discounted stay and some of Thistle's Summit's signature smoked sea salt chocolate chip cookies. Trust me, you're going to want to enter. 🍪 #ThisIsIowa #ThistlesSummit #StayQueer⠀
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#travel #explore #adventure #roadtrip #roadtrippers #travelblog #travelblogger #fromwhereistand #shewhowanders #olioontheroad #midwesttravelbloggers #mwtblogs #discovermidwest #midwestmoment #midwest #igersmidwest #visittheusa #iowa #traveliowa #publicart #bluebunny #wellsvisitorscenter
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But there’s so much more to do in Madison County than experience the iconic covered bridges—and that includes eating the most delicious slice of pie of your life at @northside_cafe! 🥧 Seriously, I stopped eating my entree well before I was full to save room for this slice of blackberry peach heaven (with @picketfencecreamery ice cream a la mode, of course). ⠀
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Discover even more things to do in Madison County by clicking the link in my bio! #ThisIsIowa #hosted ⠀
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#travel #explore #adventure #roadtrip #roadtrippers #travelblog #travelblogger #fromwhereistand #shewhowanders #olioontheroad #midwesttravelbloggers #mwtblogs #discovermidwest #midwestmoment #midwest #igersmidwest #visittheusa #iowa #traveliowa #publicart #bluebunny #wellsvisitorscenter
Instagram post 2087217244047338643_1545888032 I’ve always been a bit of a journalism nerd 🤓 In fourth grade I tried to start my own classroom newspaper, The Fourth Grade Times. Spoiler alert: No one else was interested in joining me. 🤷🏻‍♀️
So it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that I’ve always been a fan of Newsies. Which is why I was so excited to hear the Broadway production was coming to the @dmplayhouse_! 📰 
We had a great time experiencing the opening night of this incredible show with the @dsmhummingbirds and celebrating the Des Moines Playhouse’s 100th birthday with cake afterwards. If you’re in the Des Moines area, you won’t want to miss Newsies! Even if you’re not a journalism fan girl like me, the incredible dancing alone is worth seeing. Visit the playhouse’s website or call the box office to get your tickets before the run of Newsies ends on August 4. #DSMHummingbird #DMPlayhouse #dmp100 #promotion •
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#travel #explore #adventure #travelblogger #midwesttravelbloggers #mwtblogs #discovermidwest #midwestmoment #midwest #igersmidwest #communitytheatre #newsies #catchdsm #dsmusa #thisisiowa #exploreiowa #journalism
Instagram post 2076626295550361736_1545888032 It feels like I'm living in a (fisherman's) dream editing all of the photos from my @northdakotalegendary road trip! 🐟 The Enchanted Highway between Gladstone and Regent has been on my bucket list for awhile now and its quirky roadside attractions did not disappoint. •
If you've been following me for awhile, you know that I have a special place in my heart for "world's largest" things. So it should come as no surprise that the Enchanted Highway held even more allure when I learned that one of its sculptures holds the Guinness Book of World Records title of the World's Largest Scrap Metal Sculpture. •
Of the seven stops along the highway, the Fisherman's Dream was my favorite. The attention to detail and sheer scale of these towering fish truly blew me away, and I couldn't wipe the giddy smile off my face even long after the sculpture disappeared in my rearview mirror. Stay tuned for more on the Enchanted Highway coming to the blog very soon! #BeNDLegendary #MWTravelCon19
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#travel #explore #adventure #roadtrip #roadtrippers #travelblog #travelblogger #olioontheroad #midwesttravelbloggers #mwtblogs #discovermidwest #midwestmoment #midwest #igersmidwest #visittheusa #northdakota #ndlegendary #enchantedhighway #sculpture #publicart #capturenorthdakota #nodak
Instagram post 2070117440502715688_1545888032 ✨ “Far and away the best prize that life has to offer is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.” – Theodore Roosevelt ✨
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My time in North Dakota last week was the true embodiment of working hard at work worth doing. Not only was I surrounded by dozens of travel professionals who are equally passionate about the Midwest, but I also had the opportunity to experience some of the things that make North Dakota legendary—the wildlife, the roadside attractions and the people. •
When I first told people I would be driving from Des Moines to Medora, North Dakota for a week-long conference, I received more than a few skeptical looks. People expressed concern about my decision to drive so far alone and worry that I might be lonely for so many hours undisturbed. But the truth is, I was more in my element than I’ve been in a long time. •
I love the quiet that comes with a long drive alone. I find so much joy in the spontaneity that comes from not having to ask anyone else, “Does this sound good to you?” I crave the alone time that comes when I can sit in a restaurant and reflect after a long day. •
And in between that solitary sense of adventure, I got to connect with some of the most wonderful people I know. My tribe of travelers who understand the path less traveled is often much richer. Who believe that we go much farther when we bring everyone along. And who aren’t afraid to strike up a conversation with strangers for no other reason than curiosity and the love of a good story. If you ask me, this truly is the work that’s worth doing. #BeNDLegendary #FindYourPark #MWTravelCon19
Instagram post 2052483869487369607_1545888032 I've been sitting on a bit of a secret the past few weeks, but I'm thrilled to finally be able to share... I'm writing a book! 📚 I can't wait to combine two of my favorite things—good food and Midwest travel—into a book that will be released next year. I'm still pinching myself a bit that Vintage Supper Clubs of Iowa is actually happening, and while I know there's lots of work ahead, I'm so excited. 📝 I would love to hear from you! What's your favorite memory of an Iowa supper club? I'll be featuring some favorites that are no longer in operation as well as supper clubs you can still visit today as part of this project. #ThisIsIowa #VintageSupperClubsOfIowa
📸 @ivoryhousephotography •
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#travel #explore #adventure #roadtrip #roadtrippers #travelblog #travelblogger #olioontheroad #midwesttravelbloggers #mwtblogs #discovermidwest #midwestmoment #midwest #igersmidwest #iowa #supperclub #vintage #authorsofinstagram #exploreiowa #traveliowa #foodie
Instagram post 2045472509625476579_1545888032 It’s morel hunting season in Iowa! 🍄 I had never participated in this mushroom madness until a few weekends ago when I visited my friends at @thistlessummit in Mount Vernon, Iowa. We had a blast scouring the forest floor for these popular fungi, and I was able to successfully cook them (with minimal Googling) when I got back to Des Moines. 🌲 Have you ever gone hunting for morel mushrooms? What are you tried & true tips? #ThisIsIowa •
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#travel #explore #adventure #roadtrip #roadtrippers #travelblog #travelblogger #olioontheroad #midwesttravelbloggers #mwtblogs #discovermidwest #midwestmoment #midwest #igersmidwest #iowa #exploreiowa #traveliowa #morels #urbanforaging #optoutside #mountvernonia #thistlessummit
Instagram post 2030227687917975539_1545888032 Spring has finally sprung and I couldn’t be more excited! 🌷 Tonight I had the chance to spend some time at the @dmbotanicalgarden combining two of my favorite things—plants and craft beer! 🍻 As part of the Botanical Garden’s Botanical Brews class I got to learn about the botanicals used in brewing from @iowabrewersguild Minister of Beer (yes, that’s his real title) J. Wilson and sample some fantastic Iowa beers. 🌱 The Botanical Garden has all sorts of great classes with awesome discounts for its members. Interested in joining? Now when you use the code HUMMINGBIRD10 you can receive $10 off a new membership at any level. 
#gdmbgblooms #dsmbotanicalgardens #dsmhummingbird #sponsored
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#travel #explore #adventure #roadtrip #roadtrippers #travelblog #travelblogger #olioontheroad #midwesttravelbloggers #mwtblogs #discovermidwest #midwestmoment #midwest #igersmidwest #thisisiowa #spring #tulips #desmoines #iowa #catchdsm #dsmusa #botanicalgardens
Instagram post 2021986928613895894_1545888032 Playing tourist in my own town is one of my favorite ways to spend a weekend! Yesterday I had the privilege of celebrating the launch of @iowatourcompany with a truly delicious Ingersoll Food Tour. We ate and drank at three different restaurants—including @harbingerdsm—along Ingersoll and had the best time learning about the neighborhood’s culinary history. •
Pop over to my stories to see even more of delicious food we enjoyed! Sound like a fun way to spend an evening? You can book a tour of your own over on @iowatourcompany’s page. #CatchDSM #DSMUSA
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